Manchester United 'yet to make official offer for Frenkie de Jong'

Manchester United have reportedly not yet placed an official offer on the table for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong despite the recent speculation surrounding the Dutchman.

The Red Devils are believed to have identified the 25-year-old as their leading summer transfer target, with new head coach Erik ten Hag desperate for a reunion with the player that he managed at Ajax.

De Jong recently revealed a desire to remain at Barcelona, branding the Catalan outfit his "dream club" when questioned on a possible exit during this summer's transfer window.

"I prefer to stay with Barcelona. Barcelona is just my dream club. Also from a young age. I just said it too. I've never regretted my choice despite the fact that I had hoped for more in terms of prizes than I've achieved so far. But I have never regretted my choice," the Netherlands international told ESPN.

However, a recent report claimed that Ten Hag has now convinced De Jong to make the move to Old Trafford this summer, promising to build his new-look side around the midfielder.

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According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Man United recently made a verbal bid for the midfielder, offering €60m (£52m) plus €10m (£8.7m) in add-ons, which was quickly rejected by the Catalan side.

Romano claims that Barcelona want an €85m (£73.8m) guaranteed fee, and De Jong is 'calm' surrounding his future, with the Dutchman expected to go on holiday once he has finished representing Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League.

According to Sky Sports News, despite Man United's interest, they are yet to make an official offer for the former Ajax youngster, and the two clubs are still some way apart in terms of their valuations.

There is allegedly a 'growing belief from all parties' that an agreement will be reached this summer, with Barcelona open to selling due to their financial problems.

However, it is understood that the 20-time English champions would be prepared to walk away from discussions if they are unable to lower the La Liga team's asking price.

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De Jong still has more than four years left to run on his contract, while he was again a vital player at club level during the 2021-22 campaign, scoring four goals and registering five assists in 46 appearances in all competitions.

Barcelona will have to make a major sale this summer if they are to improve their squad, though, with Bayern Munich's Robert Lewandowski thought to be a leading target for the club.

Speaking to Barca TV, club president Joan Laporta said: "If our economic situation requires the sale of an important player, we are ready for that."

Man United have allowed Nemanja Matic and Paul Pogba to leave the club on free transfers this summer, while Juan Mata, Jesse Lingard and Edinson Cavani are departing at the end of their contracts.

The 20-time English champions are also believed to have offered a contract to experienced attacker Christian Eriksen, who is preparing to leave Brentford on a free transfer.